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Why Businesses Using Eggs In Asia Are Turning To Cage-Free Credits
In a rapidly changing landscape, some businesses in Asia are turning to cage-free credits as a transitional step towards achieving their animal welfare goals. This innovative approach is gaining traction among companies that use eggs in their operations, and it’s not hard to see why.
The concept of digital credits, where customers purchase “credits” to support farmers who transition to cage-free practices, may seem abstract at first glance. However, the impact on animal welfare and farmers’ livelihoods is undeniable. In Vietnam, for instance, without such a program connecting them with willing buyers, farmers might be forced to keep more birds stuck in cages.
Some critics have rightfully criticized carbon offset programs for not actually increasing carbon storage but rather justifying high-emitting activities as an example of greenwashing. If credit schemes enabled animal welfare washing in the same way, it would not be progress. However, supporters argue that this type of exchange directly encourages cage-free production and supports farmers who are making a conscious effort to change their practices.
Animal welfare organizations like the Humane League have already embraced the concept, while others, like Compassion in World Farming, remain cautious, stating that they require businesses to be transparent about their reporting and progress towards physical cage-free production.
Accurate labelling is essential in this context. Lane stresses that a company using cage-free credits cannot claim that their supply chain is fully cage-free. Instead, they can say that they support the production of cage-free eggs or commit to achieving cage-free practices.
The distinction may be subtle for some individuals who simply want the assurance that the egg they’re consuming did not come from a confined chicken. It will also be crucial to ensure that companies paying for these credits are not using it as an excuse to lag behind in cleaning up their supply chain.
It is clear that this hybrid approach represents a step in the right direction, with Lane’s consultancy encouraging businesses to purchase physical cage-free eggs wherever possible. Companies want cage-free eggs because they can make stronger claims about animal welfare.
Source: www.forbes.com
